Debut Destiny

18 year-old Hayden Kennedy had a dream start to his 2014 season; making his league debut in a 38 point rout of South Fremantle.

Hailing from the Mines Rovers football club in Kalgoorlie Kennedy was surprised to receive the news he was playing league football in round one of the 2014 season.

“I found out I was playing for the league side at the team meeting after training on Thursday night. It came as a bit of a shock; being my first year of seniors I thought I would have to make my way up the ranks but I’m stoked I achieved selection so early,” said Kennedy

The rugged midfielder played an impressive game against the Bulldogs to gather 15 disposals and generate plenty of run from the midfield.

“I thought my first game was above average. Took me a while to get used to the speed but I thought I filled my role.”

Kennedy is just one of many Subiaco footballers who have come from the West Australian mining town of Kalgoorlie; with the young midfielder attributing the productiveness of the town to the development systems.

“I think the development program they have in place is pretty good and they look after their footballers from juniors to seniors up there which helps progress at a younger age.”

“The senior boys at the Mines Rovers are also really good; they’re all behind the guys that come to play in Perth and they make you feel welcome from the start.”

With plenty of football to be played Kennedy’s focus is set clearly on making an impact at league level as the Lions search for a finals position in 2014.

“I definitely want to try keeping a spot in the league side and play my role well. Along with that achieving success on a team level is a high priority.”